Why Montessori Busy Boards Are the Ultimate Screen-Free Toy for Toddlers
Parenting is all about finding new and exciting ways to promote our children's cognitive development. One such incredible discovery that has caused a stir within the parenting world is the bouncy board. These fascinating sensory toys are gaining acclaim for their ability to captivate young minds while providing vital learning experiences. Inspired by Montessori principles, busy boards offer an engaging and educational alternative to digital devices for playtime, making them a favourite among parents who value purposeful play.
What is a Busy Board?
An active board (also known as an activity board, or sensory board) is a flat surface filled with age-appropriate toys and other objects that toddlers can explore, touch, spin or twist, slide, and play with.
Common characteristics include:
* Buckles and zippers
* Switches for lighting and latches
* Wheels, gears, and beads
* Velcro buttons, Velcro, and toggles
* Keys and safe locks
These toys are designed to stimulate your child's curiosity while helping them develop practical skills in the real world.
Is Busy Board Montessori?
Yes! As a Montessori education method, busy boards align perfectly with its fundamental principles. Dr. Maria Montessori developed it. The Montessori approach emphasises hands-on learning and creating an environment that fosters children's natural desire to learn and their independence.
A Montessori busy board with numerous activities offers exactly this - a self-directed, flexible play environment that allows toddlers to develop their problem-solving skills, as well as fine motor skills and their sense of smell, all while playing at their own pace.
Developmental Benefits of Busy Boards
Fine Motor Skills
The busy boards help toddlers strengthen the tiny muscles in their fingers and hands. Flipping knobs, turning switches, or pulling zippers can all help improve dexterity and hand-eye coordination.
Problem Solving & Cognitive Growth
Each part presents a tiny task. Finding out how to move an engine or open the latch helps build confidence and analytical thinking.
Independent Play
Are you looking for a few minutes to enjoy your cup of coffee? The busy boards keep toddlers entertained with their play. This builds patience, concentration, and imagination -- without the use of screens.
Real-Life Learning
The boards are akin to the everyday items children see adults using, such as locks, switches, and buttons. They are safe for children to "practice" these skills, which helps them develop independence.
Sensory Stimulation
The texture of the surfaces, the movement of the parts, and the sound elements create the board's liveliness and provide a variety of sensory experiences that encourage exploration.
What are Busy Boards Used For?
Based on the Montessori philosophy, these boards encourage hands-on learning to develop fine motor skills, independence, and problem-solving abilities. One popular choice among parents today is the Joyreal busy board, which comes equipped with age-appropriate activities like zippers, latches, and buttons for purposeful play without resorting to screens as entertainment. The boards are used for a variety of purposes, all designed to aid in the development of a child and their learning. The most common uses include:
Distraction Tool: Busy boards can be an effective tool for helping toddlers relax and distract them in stressful situations, such as doctor's appointments or long car journeys.
Sensory therapy: For children who have difficulties processing sensory information, the boards can serve as therapeutic tools to help them regulate and comprehend their senses more effectively.
Skills Reinforcement: The numerous activities available on a busy board can be a great complement to the lessons a child learns in preschool or other early learning environments, enhancing the child's skills.
Tips for Choosing the Right Busy Board:
If you are considering enrolling your child in our board, there are some key points to be aware of. Consider first the child's age, development levels, and their preferences. Depending on the needs of each user, a simple sensory board with smaller interactive elements may be beneficial, while others may prefer more intricate boards with multiple games.
Plan out your boards and decide what elements you want to include. There are some people who like clackers and spinners, while there are others who prefer zippers and buckles. Others may be drawn to synthetic or polymer materials. Be aware of your child's preferences for sensory as well as their needs and capabilities, and select a product that offers them a relaxing, exciting, stimulating experience.
It is also essential to consider the dimensions of the board, particularly if you intend to use it at home, in public, or in an educational or playroom setting.
Conclusion
Montessori Busy Boards aren't just toys; they're tools that aid your toddler's development in an engaging, screen-free way. From improving coordination to encouraging independence, busy boards align perfectly with Montessori's approach of teaching through real-life experiences. Busy boards make an excellent gift or a daily activity that fosters growth, offering something meaningful in our world of distractions. They allow children to focus, learn, and play more deliberately!